#11 Chris Willingham (USMC Veteran) - From Tracking IEDs with His Dog Luca to a Lifelong Mission

Veterans and Canine Heroes: Chris Willingham’s Journey with U.S. War Dogs Association.In this episode of the World Changing Veterans Podcast, we speak with Chris Willingham, a 20-year Marine Corps veteran and president of U.S. War Dogs. Chris shares his unique journey from joining the Marine Corps in 1999 to serving as a military working dog handler and continuing his service through U.S. War Dogs. Chris discusses the rigorous selection process for dog handlers, the bond between handlers and their dogs, and how his passion led him to a lifelong commitment with U.S. War Dogs. The episode also covers U.S. War Dogs’ efforts in supporting active and retired military working dogs, including its RX program and emergency care efforts. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow us on social media, and share this episode with your Battle Buddies!Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:45 Meet Chris Willingham: Marine Corps Background02:57 Becoming a Canine Handler04:10 The Bond Between Handler and Canine06:52 Canine Roles in Combat13:58 U.S. War Dogs Association: Mission and Impact16:33 Supporting Retired Military Working Dogs26:35 Celebrating 25 Years of U.S. War Dogs31:16 Conclusion and How to Get InvolvedWays to connect:U.S. War Dogs Association: uswardogs.org World Changing Veterans: If you would like to share your story on the podcast, join the movement, or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] and connect with with us on Instagram: wcveterans This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com